“NBA Commissioner Emeritus David Stern suffered a sudden brain hemorrhage earlier today for which he underwent emergency surgery,” the NBA said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with David and his family.”

At this time, his condition is unknown.

He previously led the league office from 1984 through 2014. He was then replaced by current Commissioner Adam Silver.

Under Stern’s leadership, he has helped grow the game that it is today. In addition, there were seven new franchises and six teams relocating during his watch.

The revenue under Stern ballooned from $250,000 in 1984 until $5-plus million when he retired.